Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife

The Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife, a name that suggests both utility and a bit of an unconventional approach, immediately caught my eye. Coming from Kershaw, a manufacturer known for blending quality with affordability, I was keen to see how this particular model would stack up against its competition. The promise of assisted opening and a work-ready blade profile piqued my interest, promising a blend of speed and practicality.

I needed a reliable, everyday-carry (EDC) knife that could handle a variety of tasks without breaking the bank. My old folder, while dependable, lacked the speed and ergonomic features I now sought. I wanted something that could swiftly deploy for quick tasks around the campsite, at the range, and during my weekend fishing trips.

Upon unboxing, the Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife felt solid in hand, although not excessively heavy. The swooping handle texture provided an immediate sense of security, and the blade was indeed sharp right out of the box. The deep-carry pocket clip was also a welcome sight, hinting at discreet everyday carry.

Compared to my old Gerber Paraframe Mini and a friend’s CRKT Drifter, the Kershaw Lateral offered a smoother assisted opening and a more substantial feel. While the Gerber was lighter and more compact, the Kershaw felt more robust. My friend’s CRKT, while stylish, lacked the assisted opening feature and didn’t feel as secure in my grip.

I was cautiously optimistic. The initial impression was positive, suggesting a knife that could balance affordability with practical performance. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the promise of being an ideal work knife.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for the Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife came during a weekend camping trip in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for a variety of tasks, from preparing kindling for the campfire to opening packages of food. The conditions were fairly dry, with temperatures hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.

The assisted opening mechanism worked flawlessly, allowing for rapid one-handed deployment. The blade’s slight recurve proved useful for slicing through rope and cardboard, making quick work of camp chores. The handle’s ergonomic design provided a comfortable and secure grip, even when my hands were slightly damp.

There were no immediate issues or surprises. The knife performed as expected, providing a reliable cutting tool that was easy to use and carry. The deep-carry clip kept it securely in my pocket without being overly noticeable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it extensively at the range for cutting targets, on fishing trips for cleaning fish (smaller ones, mind you), and for general EDC tasks around the house and yard.

The blade has retained its edge surprisingly well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a honing steel. There are minor signs of wear on the blade coating, but nothing that affects its performance. The assisted opening mechanism remains smooth and reliable.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick rinse with water and a light application of oil to the pivot point are all that’s needed to keep it in good working order. Compared to my previous EDC knife, the Kershaw Lateral requires less frequent sharpening and cleaning, a definite plus.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife

Specifications

The Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife boasts a 3.4-inch drop point blade made from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. The handle is constructed from glass-filled nylon, contributing to its lightweight yet durable design. The overall weight is around 3.5 ounces, making it comfortable for everyday carry.

The knife features Kershaw’s assisted opening mechanism for quick and easy one-handed deployment. It also includes a reversible extra-deep-carry pocket clip for convenient and discreet carry. The blade’s slight recurve enhances its slicing capabilities.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the knife’s performance and usability. The 8Cr13MoV steel offers a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. The assisted opening provides rapid deployment in critical situations. The deep-carry clip ensures comfortable and discreet carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife performs admirably as a versatile EDC tool. Its blade shape excels at slicing tasks, making it useful for opening packages, cutting rope, and preparing food. The assisted opening is consistently reliable, allowing for quick and easy deployment.

The knife’s primary strength lies in its balance of affordability, functionality, and ease of use. However, the blade steel is not as premium as some higher-end knives, meaning it may require more frequent sharpening with heavy use. The glass-filled nylon handle, while durable, doesn’t offer the same tactile feedback as G10 or micarta.

Overall, the Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife meets and slightly exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range. It delivers reliable performance and practical features in a compact and affordable package.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife is impressive for its price point. The blade is well-centered, and the lockup is solid. The glass-filled nylon handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The design is generally user-friendly, with an intuitive assisted opening mechanism and a comfortable handle shape. There is minimal learning curve, making it accessible to both experienced knife users and novices. The pocket clip is easy to use and keeps the knife securely in place.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife is built to last, with durable materials and a robust construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The 8Cr13MoV blade steel is relatively easy to sharpen, and the glass-filled nylon handle is resistant to impacts and abrasions.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with soap and water, along with occasional lubrication of the pivot point, will keep the knife in optimal condition. No specialized tools or skills are required for maintenance or repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife does not come with a wide range of accessories. However, it is compatible with aftermarket pocket clips, allowing users to customize its carry options. Aftermarket lanyards can also be added to the lanyard hole for added security and personalization.

Due to its straightforward design, the Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife is not highly customizable compared to some other knives. However, the availability of aftermarket pocket clips allows users to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife?

The Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife is perfect for everyday carry, general utility tasks, camping, and fishing. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use folding knife. It is especially well-suited for those new to knives and experienced users seeking a budget-friendly option.

This knife might not be the best choice for those who require a premium blade steel for heavy-duty use or prefer a more luxurious handle material. Collectors may also prefer higher-end options with more intricate designs and features.

A must-have accessory would be a quality sharpening steel or sharpening system to maintain the blade’s edge. A small bottle of knife oil for lubricating the pivot point would also be beneficial.

Conclusion on Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife

The Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife is an excellent value proposition. It offers a compelling blend of functionality, durability, and affordability. It performs its intended tasks admirably and provides a comfortable and reliable user experience.

The price is definitely justified. You get a lot of knife for your money, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers. I would personally recommend the Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC option.

If you’re in the market for a new folding knife that won’t break the bank, the Kershaw 1645 Lateral Folding Knife is definitely worth considering. Give it a try, and I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.